2014 Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec loses creature comforts, gains sporting equipment [UPDATE]

Thu, 21 Nov 2013

Hyundai unveiled the Veloster Turbo R-Spec at the LA Auto Show yesterday, and it's touted as a high-performance model without some of the standard features usually found on the Veloster Turbo, such as proximity-key entry with push-button start, premium gauge cluster, side-repeater mirrors, driver's auto-up window, high-gloss interior trim and heated leather seats.

Like the other three R-Spec models Hyundai has released (Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec, Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec and Genesis 5.0 R-Spec), the Veloster Turbo R-Spec skimps on interior appointments to keep the price down. But Hyundai thinks that people who buy it don't want that equipment anyway, and would rather install aftermarket goodies. The car is priced at $22,110 (including the $810 destination fee), which makes it the least expensive Veloster Turbo model.

The pared-down hatchback's special features include R-Spec-specific sport suspension, retuned steering and a B&M short-shifter for the six-speed manual transmission (the R-Spec isn't offered with an automatic). That's all great, but we can do without the red-accented side skirts and front splitter, which look just as tacky in person as they do in pictures.

For more information on the Veloster Turbo R-Spec, feel free to peruse the press release below.

UPDATE: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that the Veloster Turbo R-Spec was $22,110 not including the destination fee. The text has been corrected.

HYUNDAI TURBO R-SPEC MODEL JOINS VELOSTER LINE-UP

New R-Spec Model Provides a More Focused Performance Package for Tuners and Enthusiasts

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 20, 2013 – Hyundai today announced the addition of the Veloster Turbo R-Spec to its line-up at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The heart of the R-Spec is the responsive, aftermarket-tunable 1.6-liter, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a B&M Racing® Sport Shifter, and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. R-Spec production will begin in December 2013 with availability in early February 2014.

Veloster Turbo R-Spec is the fourth R-Spec model in Hyundai's lineup, following in the footsteps of Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec, Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec and Genesis 5.0 R-Spec. R-Spec represents the ultimate performance version of each of these models. For Veloster Turbo R-Spec, sport suspension and steering settings have been retuned for optimum responsiveness, with higher spring rates and a more rigid transmission mount. On the powertrain side, R-Spec is available only with the 6-speed manual transmission, and a short-throw B&M Sport Shifter has been added for a tighter, more direct shift feel.

2014 Veloster Turbo R-Spec Highlights

- Unique R-Spec suspension and steering tuning for enhanced agility and feel
- 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission with new shift knob design
- Short-throw B&M Racing® Sport Shifter for a tighter, high-precision shift feel
- Red exterior accents on front splitter and side blades (optional; later availability)
- Red leatherette bolsters with red/black cloth insert sport seats (in lieu of standard leather on other Veloster Turbo models)
- R-Spec embroidered-logo floor mats and R-Spec exterior badging
- Lowest MSRP Veloster Turbo model: $22,110, including $810 destination charge

"We're thrilled to add the Veloster Turbo R-Spec to our growing family of enthusiast-oriented R-Spec models", said Scott Margason, director, product planning, Hyundai Motor America. "The R-Spec takes the Veloster theme of affordable performance to an entirely new level that is sure to appeal to driving enthusiasts."

On the exterior, R-Spec adds a sporty red-accented front splitter and side blades, with R-Spec badging on the rear hatch. Inside, red leatherette bolsters with red/black cloth insert sport seats complement special embroidered-logo R-Spec floor mats for a sporty ambience. Veloster Turbo R-Spec will be available in four colors: Elite White, Ultra Black, Marathon Blue, and exclusively for 2014 Veloster, Sprint Gray.

In keeping with its purist driving focus, some standard equipment from the Turbo model has been deleted from the R-Spec, such as proximity-key entry with push-button start, premium gauge cluster, side-repeater mirrors, driver's auto-up window, high-gloss interior cues and full-faced heated leather seats.

Adding to the focused driving experience for all 2014 Veloster Turbo R-Spec and Turbo models is Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). This active cornering feature, utilizing capabilities from the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and powertrain control systems, improves dynamic cornering during more enthusiastic driving. TVC uses wheel-speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering. This active braking redirects power to the outside front wheel in the turn, reducing wheelspin, for enhanced cornering grip and corner-exit acceleration. Overall, TVC provides Veloster Turbo R-Spec drivers with an incremental margin of cornering precision during enthusiastic driving.

Inside the cabin, 2014 Veloster Turbo R-Spec and Turbo models receive Active Sound Design (later availability), which provides richer in-cabin powertrain resonance for an even more involving driving experience, especially during spirited driving.

By Damon Lowney